Tottenham vs AZ: Son Out, But Can Spurs Still Secure a Win?
Tottenham Hotspur face AZ Alkmaar in their final UEFA Europa League Group Stage match on Thursday, December 12th. The match is crucial for Spurs, who need a win to secure top spot in Group J and avoid a tougher draw in the knockout rounds. However, a key player will be missing: Son Heung-min.
Son's Absence Looms Large
Son, who has been a vital part of Tottenham's attack this season, has been ruled out of the match with a hamstring injury. His absence is a significant blow for manager Jose Mourinho, who will have to rely on other players to step up in the crucial encounter.
Can Spurs Overcome the Challenge?
Despite Son's absence, Tottenham have a strong squad and will be confident of securing victory. Harry Kane is always a threat in front of goal, while Dele Alli and Giovani Lo Celso have been in good form recently.
AZ Alkmaar, meanwhile, are a tough opponent who have already beaten Tottenham once this season. They boast a dangerous attacking line led by Myron Boadu and will be looking to cause an upset.
Key Tactical Considerations for Mourinho
Mourinho will need to find a way to compensate for Son's absence. He could opt to deploy Lucas Moura in a more central attacking role, or use Steven Bergwijn's pace on the flanks. The manager will also need to ensure his defense is solid against a potent AZ attack.
The Importance of a Strong Performance
A win against AZ would not only secure top spot in the group but also provide a much-needed boost in confidence for Tottenham. A loss, on the other hand, could have a negative impact on their morale and could potentially lead to a tougher draw in the knockout rounds.
Looking Ahead: Beyond the Europa League
While the Europa League is important, Tottenham will also have their sights set on the Premier League and the FA Cup. With Son back from injury in the coming weeks, they will be hoping to mount a serious challenge on all fronts.
Conclusion
Tottenham's game against AZ is a crucial fixture for them. Son's absence will be a challenge, but with the quality of their squad, they should be confident of securing a victory. A strong performance will be crucial for their European ambitions and for building momentum ahead of a busy Christmas period.